Trade market relatively quiet...but a few things percolating

It sure seems dead on the NHL trade front, but that's to be expected this early in the season. Teams continue to assess what they've got in house before they go out and use assets in a trade.

Doesn't seem like a ton of things are happening out there, but here are a few situations worth keeping an eye on:
The Red Wings may be looking to trade one of their forwards in the coming weeks. They feel they have a surplus of NHL talent up front and don't want to expose anyone to waivers. This probably comes to a head when Pavel Datsyuk returns to the lineup. A lot of teams are facing difficult choices regarding waivers; many more players are exposed to waivers under the new CBA. Some have linked the Senators and Red Wings in trade talks.

The Flames, Avalanche and Oilers are all looking to move a goalie. The Hurricanes will put Cam Ward on the market at some point, especially if extension talks don't progress.

Not a lot of buyers in the goalie market although it's been widely speculated the Sabres will make a move, especially if Robin Lehner's rehab progresses slowly. I don't think the Sabres would acquire a starter like Hiller as has been speculated, although a short term fix like Reto Berra could be stomached.

It feels like half the league is looking to acquire a defenseman. The Blue Jackets, Hurricanes, Bruins, Penguins, Blackhawks and Sharks are teams most actively in pursuit of a depth upgrade. The Oilers, Leafs, Flyers, Senators and Stars may be willing to part with a depth defenseman.